Pelvic Therapy Testimonials

What do patients have to say about their experience in pelvic physical therapy at Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber?

“It all happens before you know it, and when you don’t expect it. Life changes! Depressing, angering, unfair, painful, uncomfortable, and miserable are all words that could describe what life feels like when you have a pelvic floor dysfunction. Add in the fact that when you’re a man, the list of PTs that can treat you gets even smaller and life suddenly doesn’t look so promising. I struggled for almost three years with this condition. I finally found an answer to my prayers! She’s a PT who both knows and understands how to treat my condition! This is absolutely both a treatable and manageable condition and she’s taught me that! If you are reading this, then odds are, you already know and you’re looking for help. You’ve found it! Make the call and learn what it means to enjoy life again!”

-Matt, 51

“I was first diagnosed with endometriosis in Fall 2006 after many years of battling severe pelvic pain, unpredictable menstrual cycles, fibroids/cysts, and painful intercourse. I had heard about pelvic floor therapy but did not know much about it. I realized that this was the course of treatment I needed to try! I have been EXTREMELY happy with my progress. My pain is manageable and I have learned to control my symptoms through various exercises and breathing techniques. The physical therapist has also taught me how to read my symptoms and my menstrual cycle during the month to PREVENT pain and discomfort! Finally an answer to my prayers! I am so thankful that I have found a treatment option that is working without side effects!”

-Janice, 35

After having surgery for endometriosis, I was still having horrible pain. My surgeon suggested trying physical therapy and I had no clue what he was talking about. When I thought of physical therapy, I thought of a torn rotator cuff or broken leg. I had no idea there was such a thing as pelvic physical therapy. I was skeptical going into my first appointment because I had been having pain for so long, but the therapists taught me how to do different exercises and lay in different positions that helped to ease the pain.

I’ve now been pain free for almost 8 months. I couldn’t have done it without them! They really are a wonderful team ~ I couldn’t ask for better therapists.

-Satisfied Patient

When I first received the diagnosis, I was feeling very down about what the future might hold.  But, the therapist reassured me and lifted my spirits from the first visit. The breathing techniques and exercises were not only helpful for my specific condition, but also for my overall health and well being.  The therapist went above and beyond in answering all of my questions. She gave thorough explanations in terms that I could understand.

-Satisfied Patient

I never knew this type of physical therapy treatment existed, but I trusted my doctor. The therapists made the experience comfortable and thoroughly explained what they were doing and why.

-Satisfied Patient

The therapists were absolutely amazing. I was nervous about the treatment and very stressed about my condition. Their absolute professionalism and kindness eased my concerns and made me very comfortable. I can’t thank them enough! My symptoms have subsided and the explanation and guidance for my home exercises have allowed me to continue my recovery. Once again I want to let them know how much I appreciate their dedication to this field of work.

-Brian

It was comforting to be able to openly discuss my concerns and problems with a professional who truly cared. I felt that she would do everything possible to assist me in accomplishing my goals. Thank you!

-Satisfied Patient

Pelvic Physical Therapy is easily the best thing I did for myself after having my daughter. I really thought I would be uncomfortable and in pain for the rest of my life. Working with the therapists showed me that in no way did I have to accept that as my new normal. They brought me back to a place where I can do everything I could before pregnancy with no discomfort or pain. They also equipped me with the confidence, knowledge, and resources to stay there. The therapists are the epitome of professionalism and their bedside manner and compassion are truly remarkable.

Yes, they treat the physical, but they also helped my worried new mother soul!

I have never had better medical care, and for that I am so thankful!

-Stormie C

I had been to multiple specialists in search of some relief from my pelvic pain. No other treatment and education helped me understand and manage my pain as much as the pelvic physical therapy program. My therapists were always professional, friendly, courteous, and helpful. The program was adapted to address my other physical issues. I felt they were truly concerned about my total well being. I continue to use the exercises, massage, and diet with success. My life has improved due to the Pelvic Physical Therapy Program at Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center. Thank you!

-L. F.

I would highly recommend this therapy program for women who are diagnosed with POP (pelvic organ prolapse). The therapists are very knowledgeable in their work and helped me tremendously. I am still doing the exercises they’ve taught me and have come to recognize the things that are bladder irritants. If your doctor suggests seeing a therapist for pelvic physical therapy, don’t hesitate. It isn’t something to be ashamed of and you are only helping yourself live a healthier life.

-Deanna R.

After careful evaluation by a colorectal surgeon in Pittsburgh for the problem of rectal incontinence, there was nothing found that surgery would help. “Try biofeedback”, he said. His office found Pelvic Physical Therapy in Windber! Who knew! The education and therapy provided by the therapists were beneficial after about 10 sessions. They provided not only physical therapy but taught me numerous helpful tricks and lifestyle changes. I’m not cured, but I’ve improved enough to live a more normal life.

-James R., MD

I had surgery for bladder incontinence. It was not successful. The pelvic physical therapy program was effective in just 4 weeks. The staff is polite, professional, and very knowledgeable.

-Satisfied Patient

During/after the birth of our first son I suffered a fourth degree tear and I did not heal properly. I did not fully understand the severity of my injuries until I attended pelvic physical therapy. When I first started therapy and became aware of the extent of my injuries, I was worried that I might never fully recover or have a normal sex life with my husband. We are currently anticipating the birth of our second son- due in March. I am so grateful for both of my therapists. They made me feel comfortable during our sessions and made a potentially embarrassing/shameful issue less so. Thank you so much! I am forever grateful!

-Satisfied Patient

I have never encountered any type of medical professional with the sincerity and total patient concern as was demonstrated by my therapists.  They never lost faith that I could obtain success, even when I did.  They explored various treatment methods and provided information to add to treatment regime and/or explore various potential triggers causing the symptoms.

The treatment approach attended to so many details that added to the total calming experience.  They were concerned with the room temperature, lighting, elevation of pillows and table, (in my case) the type of sheets! etc. They were so respectful of the potentiality of embarrassment or discomfort when proving treatment.

Any thoughts of how I would describe my treatments experience include a variety of superlative words… my therapists were exceptional in everything they did. I would be more than happy to provide unqualified recommendation of the Pelvic Physical Therapy Program.

Remaining so grateful for helping me through a protracted and painful health issue.

-Cynthia W.

First, let me say that I think every woman should be evaluated by a pelvic physical therapist. I’m a chiropractor and I understand the repercussions of untreated pelvic floor issues. I personally used pelvic physical therapy after the birth of my two children because I wanted to return to my normal rigorous exercise program without suffering unwanted and often considered “normal” symptoms. The therapists are fantastic. It was a great experience and I now send many of my patients to learn and receive the benefits of pelvic physical therapy.

-Dr. Kendra F.

Although I had to leave this program before reaching my goals, I feel it’s a very worthwhile program. Do to other health problems, I chose to stop. However, I have since gotten those problems under control. By using the exercises and information I learned, as well as being able to sleep through most nights by using a CPAP machine, I am doing much better. When I have a problem now, it is due to eating a trigger food (I have many of those). Otherwise, bathroom trips have been limited to every 3-4 hours. The therapists were a pleasure to work with – always courteous, friendly, caring, and helpful. Thank you for everything.

-Satisfied Patient

The therapist explained my treatment in detail and advised me on how to maximize the benefit of the exercises. After reevaluation of my condition by my referring specialist, he noted a marked improvement of the targeted area confirming that the treatment plan was correctly administered.

-Annie K.

My therapist always explained the procedures being done and asked for my permission to continue. I have shared my experience with many of my friends and highly recommend the program.  I have experienced good results and I am doing well! Thank you.

-Nancy S.

My experience with pelvic physical therapy has been more than I could have imagined.  I always looked forward to my appointments.  I love my therapists; they are so knowledgeable, welcoming, kind, and I miss seeing them.  I’m so grateful that my quality of life has improved tremendously.  I highly recommend the pelvic physical therapy program to anyone who is having pelvic issues.

And keep up with your home exercises!

-Sharon P.

The pelvic physical therapists do a wonderful job of explaining the procedures and their likely benefits. Although I continued with the therapy as long as my insurance coverage allowed, my issues were not resolved to the extent that I would have liked. I would recommend anyone having pelvic issues, to try the therapy and be open to its possible benefits. Any degree of knowledge and improvement is worthwhile.

-Satisfied Patient

Everyone there was wonderful. They made me feel at ease. They were very compassionate and caring. I was apprehensive at first but they made things very easy and comfortable.

-Satisfied Patient

I found all interactions to be professional. My therapist really made me feel comfortable and explained things well so I could overcome my urinary incontinence.

-Satisfied Patient

Pelvic physical therapy changed my life! The therapists gave me hope when I had none. They showed me there was treatment when I was sure there was none. I felt comfortable and confident throughout my treatment. Words cannot express how thankful I am for them and what they did for me. I wish I could tell all women everywhere about this and that they are not alone, there is help.

-Satisfied Patient

The treatment rooms were so relaxing- easy for my stress to be relieved!

-Satisfied Patient

I did not know what to expect when I went to my first appt. The therapist was very friendly and so very good at explaining what would be involved. I have known the therapist assistant for many years (from HealthStyles). It was comforting to know she would also be involved in whatever therapy I would receive. I became very comfortable with all the staff. My pelvic floor therapy has helped me gain the confidence to be “out and about” and not have to rush to a bathroom. I learned so many things that have restored my dignity. I learned your “brain” controls so many of these problems. Thanks to these wonderful therapists.  I can now go to church and not worry about making it to the bathroom in time. It greatly improved my life. I’ve told many of my friends about this valuable therapy.

-Jan

Prior to pelvic physical therapy, I was experiencing pelvic pain that would reach 9 or 10 on a pain scale of 1 to 10.  This had been happening for a few years but it was getting more frequent.  My doctor at McGee Women’s Hospital recommended pelvic physical therapy as my first line of treatment.  After several weeks of therapy I am no longer reaching intense pain levels and only occasionally am I experiencing mild pain.  My sincere thanks to the therapists for offering this service.

-Satisfied Patient

At first I was nervous about the treatment I would be receiving for my pelvis, however they made me feel as comfortable as possible.  They always worked around my schedule, and the staff is extremely welcoming. I would refer anyone to the Pelvic Physical Therapy Program!

-Melanie D.

The therapy sessions were extremely helpful. I continue doing the exercises explained on the print-out. Thank you for your help, care, and skill.

-Satisfied Patient

My experience in the pelvic physical therapy program was very informative. The staff treated me very respectfully and explained what was going on and what I was doing that aggravated my condition with bladder control (the exercises have really helped). I would recommend this program to anyone with the condition of bladder incontinence.

-Satisfied Patient

The staff is wonderful and they help you feel safe and secure. Feeling comfortable really helped me find success in the program. Thank you.

-Satisfied Patient

The therapists helped me get back to a normal life after dealing with ongoing pelvic pain. They are very professional and easy to talk to about anything. I felt that my issues were very important and that they truly cared about my wellbeing.

-Satisfied Patient

Choosing pelvic floor therapy at Windber was exactly what I needed to feel comfortable in my skin again.  With Diastasis Recti I was starting to struggle in many ways and my therapist was great at explaining everything and supported me in my healing.  I have recommended the program to many people struggling with the same thing.  Thank you for being a local resource.

-Emily M.

Windber’s pelvic physical therapy program is state of the art. As a woman experiencing pelvic pain on and off for years, it is a very difficult subject to talk about. The therapists made my experience such a positive one and provided me with relief!  I felt very comfortable every time I came for treatment. They truly worked so hard to help me get my life back. I am so grateful.

-Satisfied Patient

I was having problems with my bladder when I started the program. As I progressed, it got better.  I still have problems when I don’t do the exercises. But as soon as I start them again, my symptoms improve. The girls are awesome. They explained everything they would do and how it would help. The sessions were comfortable and I was never made to feel any other way. I would recommend this program to anyone with a pelvic problem.

-Satisfied Patient

My health care provider was treating me for a while and mentioned pelvic therapy. I just kept saying it wasn’t for me.  After meeting with the therapist and having it done, I wish I would have done it a lot sooner.

-Satisfied Patient

The program gave me some hope that I might again urinate naturally after almost 8 years. Although not meeting the goal, I did benefit from the sessions. I plan to continue the exercises and hope that my condition will improve over time to the point where another attempt could be successful.

-Satisfied Patient

The kind and compassionate care I received through this program was essential to my success.  Before beginning the program, I was embarrassed and upset – feeling like I wasn’t being heard. The therapists were understanding and supportive, sharing every details of my treatment so I knew what to expect and how it would help my condition.  They empathized with me and were supportive through my setbacks and all of my accomplishments.  I am grateful for all they have done to help me.

-Kathryn D.

It was helpful to come to a place where someone wants to listen to your problems and help you through them. After so many doctors and treatments you begin to think you’re crazy. But coming here assured me I wasn’t. Thanks to the comforting care I received here. Thanks for your professional and caring service.

-Linda P.

When patients are at their gynecologists they should be better educated on these kinds of treatments and referred much earlier. I was grateful for the help and compassion. The depth and breadth of my therapist’s knowledge was helpful in improving my pelvic health but also my overall health and well being.

-Satisfied Patient

I really wish I would have known about the true benefits of pelvic floor therapy many years ago! I have suffered with pain for so many years and I’ve also gotten very good at hiding it from others. The staff at Chan Soon-Shiong made me feel like it was okay to say I hurt. They taught me how to recognize the pain, relax it, and re-train my muscles to become stronger. After my first year of therapy, I had become much stronger and my pain decreased during my cycle! Now I am able to recognize when I am tightening and do various exercises to relax and strengthen on my own!

-Janice K.

I will forever be thankful for the help and support I received from the pelvic physical therapists! I was very discouraged after losing bladder control following the birth of my son but they provided constant encouragement, thorough explanations and training of the exercises, and never made me feel rushed during appointments. I saw improvements and progress after each therapy session. Both of them were so kind and sweet and it allowed me to feel completely comfortable and at ease.

Thank you again! 🙂

-Satisfied Patient

If it wasn’t for the therapist and my pelvic therapy I would still be sick. I am so thankful for her. I am doing much better. I can eat food now and keep it down.

-Peggy

I would recommend this program without hesitation.  I had multiple procedures done and saw many different medical professionals before finally being referred to the pelvic physical therapists.  It was an incredibly frustrating and painful time and my life, and I had begun to feel as if my pain would never be identified or resolved.  Both of my therapists were the kindest and I felt more comfortable seeing them than any doctor I had seen prior.  They genuinely care about their patients and it is evident.  I learned crucial things from them that I would have never learned otherwise (I often share those things with other women as well)!  They are truly amazing at what they do, and I would not be doing as well as I am today without their help.  Thank you both so much!

-Satisfied Patient

I looked forward to my sessions; the therapists are exceptional therapists and were able to make my condition so much better!!!

-Satisfied Patient

When I went to therapy the therapists made me really feel like they cared- truly cared about my pain, my issues- very personal and so easy to truly open up about something so private!

-Satisfied Patient

The pelvic physical therapists always explained everything thoroughly. They worked with me during all of my treatments to educate me and help me understand my condition. You won’t find more caring therapists and I can’t say enough about the care and treatment I received from them – The absolute best.

-Satisfied Patient

The therapists made me feel completely comfortable and at ease during all of my therapy sessions. I never felt rushed and they answered all of my questions thoroughly.

I have full bladder control again thanks to them 🙂

-Satisfied Patient

This program saved my life! I cannot thank my pelvic physical therapists enough.

-Satisfied Patient

I had been suffering with hip pain for 3 years and had tried everything- chiropractic, PT, OT, injections. The pain was severe and my quality of life was much reduced. I started to have bladder issues and was finally sent here. After the first treatment my hips felt better. As time went on both the hips and bladder problems are almost gone and I feel normal again. I do my exercises and massage daily and usually have no pain. If the weather is really damp I might get a twinge but I can walk- not like before with the severe pain.

-Patti K.

The therapists are absolutely fantastic at their jobs and they are very calming and compassionate.  I would highly recommend that anyone go to this Chan Soon-Shiong Pelvic Physical Therapy Program.  It is well worth all the knowledge and treatment that you will receive there! One day you may be able to walk to the bathroom rather than run!

-Satisfied Patient

I had stroke-related loss of bowel and bladder function. Coming to pelvic PT was extremely helpful. My therapist thoroughly explained the location and function of the pelvic floor, so my awareness increased and allowed me to effectively participate in therapy. I learned a lot and greatly benefited from the bio feedback. My symptoms have improved, and I have continued to do pelvic pt on my own, based on what I learned.

-Satisfied Patient

My therapist made me feel comfortable and showed genuine care and concern for me as her patient. The exercises she taught me continue to be helpful and have reduced my physical issues. This is a much-needed service in our area and she did an exceptional job. I would recommend her to anyone experiencing pelvic pain issues.

-Satisfied Patient

The pelvic physical therapists are amazing. They explained everything perfectly. They made things super easy to understand. The ladies always made sure I was comfortable with anything they did. The Pelvic Physical Therapy Program really helped me.

-Brandy

I would like to thank my therapists for their outstanding professionalism. They worked with me explaining everything and they gave me a better understanding of my condition and ways to improve upon it. I’m grateful as I am pain-free and continue with my exercise daily. I cannot thank them enough.

-Satisfied Patient

Explanations were thorough and unhurried, there were no distractions and I felt like I was heard. The therapist went above and beyond to help me improve my condition.

-Satisfied Patient

My therapist was very kind and compassionate. I felt that she understood my condition and was very knowledgeable of contributing and aggravating factors. She offered suggestions for lifestyle changes and presented a very reasonable plan for maintaining the improvement she had helped me achieve. She was friendly and engaging, striking a perfect balance of professionalism and respectfulness at the same time.

-Satisfied Patient

I initially was hesitant to go to therapy for my back and hips related to my pregnancy- I thought I was just out of shape. The therapists made me realize this was something that could be treated and I made the right choice getting pelvic PT. These two women’s knowledge and patient care is above and beyond much other medical care I’ve received in the area and I will always be grateful! I took the time for treatment which helped me complete my first 5K! I will definitely be recommending the Pelvic PT program at Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center to more women who would benefit from therapy in the future!

-Emily M.

After completing my program I became lax in doing the exercises and as a result my old problems came back. This made me go back to my exercises and they once again are helping.

-Satisfied Patient

I was apprehensive before starting therapy because I didn’t know what to expect. The therapists realized my concerns. They were very gentle and explained every step as I continued the program. I looked forward to seeing my therapists because they were very nice and caring. I would recommend this therapy to anyone having this difficult problem. It is such a good feeling to feel in control of your problem and know how much the exercises can help. It is freeing.

-Satisfied Patient

Both of my pelvic physical therapists were so patient, easy to talk to, and a wealth of information!

I always felt comfortable in a very seemingly uncomfortable situation. They really take the time to build a comfortable environment and rapport each week. I looked forward to some “me” time during therapy.

-Satisfied Patient

They worked together each week to build a plan specific to my unique needs. I loved how I could go back and forth between them. They clearly discussed my case and never missed a beat in my progress.

-Satisfied Patient

The pelvic physical therapists went above and beyond to make me feel comfortable. They were great listeners, always took their time giving me thorough explanations about my treatment! From exercises breathing and massage, I always felt as though they knew me well! They always had my trust to meet my unique needs!

-Sam

The therapists are kind, compassionate, caring, and always professional.  They helped me so much through education and treatment.  They answered many more questions and my doctor.  They create an atmosphere that makes a sometimes uncomfortable and delicate situation very welcoming and comfortable.  I’m so thankful that I found them and would highly recommend them for their services.  God bless the work they do.

-Satisfied Patient

My pelvic physical therapists were amazing!  I always thought I was well aware of my body and how to address running ailments.  I recently found I was clueless about my pelvic floor and how to address pains in my pelvis.  Their help with pelvic anatomy knowledge and their ability to translate the description of my mystery pains into viable stretches and exercises, (that effectively addressed my issues) amazed me.

-Satisfied Patient

I was pleased to find out there is help available so close to home.  I was nervous at first because I didn’t know what to expect but it was a private and relaxed atmosphere. I could express myself to the therapist and she helped me understand what I needed to do to receive help.  I am glad I was referred to the medical center for pelvic floor therapy.

-Satisfied Patient

Both of the therapists I saw in the Pelvic Floor Program were very kind and caring medical providers.  Although the nature of the program can be kind of sensitive, they put you at ease and there is no embarrassment whatsoever.  They are both excellent communicators.  The program was presented and explained to me and I was allowed to progress at my own rate, taking as much time as was needed.  The program helped me a lot with my problem.  I might forget and possibly relapse, but I was assured I could call and get help in the future.  I highly recommend this program.  The physical therapists are amazing.  There is nothing to feel uncomfortable or embarrassed about.

-D.K.

I was very much in need of help for my pain and discomfort.  They helped me with my pain and this improved my life.  They were great.  I cannot take pain medication and for a year or so prior to therapy my pain was “over the top”.  At this time my doctor sent me to them for help.  I was able to sleep and my days were much more pain free.  I tell everyone they were my angels.  They made a big difference in my life.

Thank you for all of your help.

-Satisfied Patient

Pelvic therapy has helped me enjoy a more active life.  I can now run and play with my grandchildren without the constant fear of having an accident.  Everyone in the program was so helpful and friendly.  They explained everything so clearly and thoroughly.

-Cathy Z.

The pelvic floor program was very comforting and well run.  The care was excellent, but my personal condition was beyond physical therapy remedy.  It did however provide me with self-help tools that I still use at home today.

-Satisfied Patient

The therapists removed any perceived stigma/shame associated with pelvic physical therapy.  Clear and useful information was shared so I could understand the “why” of my issues.  Little did I know, I had adopted behaviors that contributed to my symptoms.  I believe had I not received treatment, I would be experiencing worse symptoms and I know I would feel helpless.  I highly recommend seeking pelvic physical therapy for an evaluation if you are experiencing incontinence.  I’m so glad I did.

-Satisfied Patient

I highly recommend pelvic physical therapy and have told others about it. Most people are unaware of its existence. I saw the brochure at Windber Fitness Center! The therapist could not be more kind, thoughtful, and considerate! More advertisement needed!

-Satisfied Patient

Physical therapy for my pelvic prolapse was very helpful. I continue to do the exercises as often as possible.

-Satisfied Patient

The therapist taught me more about my bladder issues than anyone had prior – which was extremely helpful.  Along with many other things, she taught me how to isolate and relax my (pelvic) muscles.

-Satisfied Patient

Very informative.  I walked away with improved knowledge about my condition.  I was given exercises to perform in the comfort of my own home to keep my issues in order.  Very thankful for my pelvic physical therapists.

-Satisfied Patient

At first I didn’t know a pelvic physical therapy program existed.  I know some doctors would prefer to give you a shot, but I believe you need to get to the root of the problem.  I felt the therapists were very professional at all times.  Maybe more advertising in the newspaper and pamphlets for patients to have would be beneficial.  Thank you for your support.

-Dolores P.

Overall, I was very satisfied with my time at Pelvic Physical Therapy.  Although I am not feeling 100%, I definitely made progress from where I was before I started therapy.  The therapists showed me multiple exercises and different techniques to help ease the pain, as well as answered many questions I had about my issues.  They were very courteous and respectful.  I felt that they were very caring and wanted me to meet my goals in the best way possible.  I was very satisfied with the time spent in the program and if ever necessary, I would definitely try it again.

-Satisfied Patient

I didn’t want to take pills for my bladder leakage, so I thought I would give pelvic physical therapy a try.  It is awesome to stand up or to sneeze without leaking!  I am living proof it works.  Continually exercising will keep bladder leaks away.

-Twoie, 67

I went to Windber Gynecology for an examination to see what my problem was.  I was told I had pelvic organ prolapse.  So, I started physical therapy.  My therapists were very kind and respectful.  They were great at explaining things, they always listened to you, and they always made sure you had a good understanding of what was discussed.  I am happy that I choose to go there. They did a 100% good job.

-L.T.